Skip to main content

Contemplative Commons

The Contemplative Commons supports multidisciplinary collaborations and ongoing opportunities of learning—a haven to freely practice the cultivation of attention, belonging, and connection to others and the natural environment.

Overview

 

Listen to the building's architects discuss the design and process of creating the Contemplative Commons. (Architects: Kent Chiang, Joshua Aidlin of Aidlin Darling Design)
 

The Contemplative Commons is a dynamic complex of spaces designed to foster organic exploration of new ways of experiencing the world. Light-filled indoor spaces, integrated outdoor areas, and art installations inspired by nature promote immersive experiences and afford opportunities for contemplative practice for students and the community. Situated within the Contemplative Commons, the Contemplative Sciences Center creates opportunities at the Commons, that center mind-body practices, integrate evidence-based programming designed to cultivate resilience, expand awareness, and foster meaningful connections.

Find our events here.

In fall 2024, we welcomed international artist Wolfgang Buttress for the commissioning of NINFEO, an immersive sound, light, and sculptural experience housed in the Contemplative Commons.

Group of people sitting talking outside Contemplative Commons

Above: The UVA Brain Institute held a symposium at Contemplative Commons in 2024. Participants connect during a breakout session.

Contemplative Commons

403 Emmet Street S.
Charlottesville, VA 22903
phone: 434-982-6057
email: csc@virginia.edu
(Visitor Information)

Hours: 

  • Mon-Thu: 7am-7pm
  • Fri: 7am-5pm
  • Closed Weekends
Hours of Operation

Open M-F, 9 am to 5 pm

ENVIRONMENTS for Flourishing Supporting students and our communities

The Contemplative Sciences Center works directly at the University of Virginia (UVA) and in collaboration with partners across Grounds on initiatives that combine contemplative and experiential learning as well as conducting multidisciplinary research across the University including the Environmental Institute, The Department of Music, Anesthesiology, Architecture, Religious Studies, Engineering, and Psychology. We view contemplative learning as deeply experiential, holistic, and ecological.

Courtyard in the Contemplative Commons
A Ginkgo tree-linked courtyard supports a walkable water feature and overlooks the adjacent Dell Pond ecosystem.
Performance in the Convergence Hall of the Contemplative Commons
Programming throughout the Contemplative Commons affords experiences to perceive the ways in which light and sound; music and movement; silence and stillness can support wellness.
View of the Contemplative Commons from across the Dell at twilight
The Contemplative Commons offers a number of innovations in form and function including an abundance of natural light and highly interconnected indoor/outdoor spaces that reflect the importance of nature exposure to health and well-being.

Learn More

The Contemplative Commons is funded in part by a $40 million lead gift from Paul and Sonia Jones, along with generous gifts from Jeffrey C. Walker, additional members of the Contemplative Sciences Center’s Advisory Board, and other donors. Support the work of the Contemplative Sciences Center.